Description:

The hinge is extended and straight forming a near right angle with one size of the shell. The hinge has no teeth.

The outer surfaces of the valves are covered with alternating wavy radial bands of off white and greyish brown or green. The interior is mother of pearl with an outer black margin. 

Size:

Maturity: Lm unknown. Range unknown. Max Length: 25cm

Habitat and Ecology:

Inhabits intertidal and subtidal zones (depth 1-75m). Occurs in coral reef areas. Suspension feeders typically associated with oligotrophic and low turbidity habitats. Attaches itself to hard substrates via abyssus.

Fishery Status:

This species is not protected or subject to fishery regulations. It is utilised locally in the Praslin pearl farm in the production of black pearls.

Notes:

Jarret (2000) referred to this species as being “Uncommonly found attached to rocks or dead coral Slabs 3-10m.” The larger specimen shown here was found beachcombing, but the smaller was found dead but still attached to one of the pontoons at Eden island. 

References:

Jarrett, A.G. (2000). Marine Shells of the Seychelles. Carole Green Publishing, 2 Station Road, Swavesey, Cambridge CB4 5QJ. UK. ISBN. 1 903479 00 2.

MolluscaBase eds. (2020). MolluscaBase. Pinctada margaritifera (Linnaeus, 1758). Accessed through: World Register of Marine Species at: http://marinespecies.org/aphia.php?p=taxdetails&id=207899 (09/05/20).

Citation:

Nevill, J.E.G. (2020). Seychelles Seatizens. Pinctada margaritifera. https://seatizens.sc/invertebrates/pinctada-margaritifera-linnaeus-1758/